Prithvi-II Missile Test Fired Successfully

The land version of the short range surface–to–surface ballistic missile Prithvi-II was successfully test-fired from a defence base off Odisha coast. The test was conducted by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) of the Indian Army with logistics support from DRDO. The test was part of the user training exercise. The missile carrying a dummy payload was mounted on a Mobile Tatra transporter-erector Launcher (MTL).

In November 2016, the twin trial of surface-to-surface nuclear capable Prithvi-II missile was successfully conducted by the India Army from a test range at Chandipur in Odisha. During the test, two Prithvi-II missiles in salvo mode were successfully test-fired in quick succession from a mobile launcher of the Integrated Test Range (ITR).

Prithvi-II

Prithvi-II is a tactical short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) developed indigenously by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is the first missile to be indigenously developed by DRDO under India’s prestigious Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP).

The missile is capable of carrying 500 kg to 1,000 kg of nuclear as well as conventional warheads. the missile has a strike range of 350 km. The missile is powered by liquid propellant and can operate with both liquid as well as solid fuel.

It has the ability to dodge enemy missiles by using advanced inertial guidance system with manoeuvring trajectory to hit its target. The missile was inducted into Indian armed forces in 2003. The missile has been inducted into the 333-missile regiment of the Indian Army. The missile can deliver warheads deep into enemy territory and inflict heavy damage to forward airfields. It is designed in such a way that it can be taken close to the forward line over any kind of terrain.